Dryden, Virginia
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Since the first short, silent, black and white movies of the late 1800s, going to the cinema or movie theater has been a favorite pastime around the world. The theater offers a whole experience complete with candy, snacks and the excitement of the big screen. The movies are always improving with more laughter, creativity and adventure to share with its theater-going crowd. Here are some terms to know about movie theaters.

Matinee – A matinee is a movie or play showing that occurs during the day rather than evening or night. These showings have cheaper tickets because of the unusual time of the movie.

Box office – The box office is where a person purchases tickets for the particular movie they want to see. If presale tickets are being sold for popular movies before their release, the box office is a good place to purchase tickets.

Wide release – Wide release refers to a movie that is opening in more than 600 cinemas, usually nationwide. Other movies open in fewer theaters.

Trailer – A movie trailer is a short preview that typically consists of the funniest, most action packed or horror filled pieces of a movie used to entice people to return to the theater. There are usually about four or five trailers shown before a movie at the theater.

Shorts – Movie shorts are films under 40 minutes, including credits, that are not feature films. Shorts are occasionally shown at theaters at film festivals and other art events with a movie focus.

Motion Picture Association of America – This association is responsible for ensuring movies are rated so that the public can determine which movies are appropriate for them and their children. Movies are rated on violence, language and more.

Catching a movie at the theater can make a great afternoon activity or date night outing.
You can look up a list of movie show times on the internet or by calling a movie hotline. You can also purchase tickets in advance online to save time when you get to the cinema. If you don't feel comfortable punching in your credit card number online you can buy your ticket at the theater when you arrive to see the show. You can also use the internet to view movie trailers or see what a movie is rated.
New films often premiere on Fridays. If you don't like crowds and want to pay a discounted rate you are better off seeing an early matinee. Matinee tickets are often a dollar or two cheaper than evening film tickets.
If you enjoy stadium seating, you are best off going to a large, chain theater. Many of these theaters can be found attached to malls. These theaters often also have wider screens.
Arrive at the theater early if you intend to purchase popcorn, candy or other snacks and beverages. You won't want to risk missing the previews if the snack line is long.
If you want to see an independent film you may have to look around and see what cinemas your movie is playing in. Indie flicks often have limited release. If you live near a big city however, finding an indie theater shouldn't be a problem. Ticket prices at these theaters are usually comparable with prices in the surrounding area.